| [ Summary ] |
PTH (1-34), also known as teriparatide, an anti-osteoporotic agent with potent bone-forming effects, has been shown to increase the bone mineral density and to reduce the risk of new vertebral and nonvertebral fractures in patients with osteoporosis. Daily or weekly subcutaneous injections of teriparatide are available in Japan. Although the effects of daily and weekly administration of the drug on bone turnover markers seem to differ, their prominent anti-fracture efficacies are comparable. Recent clinical studies have suggested a role for teriparatide in accelerating the healing for osteoporotic fractures, and it has moreover been reported to enhance bone union in patients with bisphosphonate-associated atypical femoral fractures. |